Steve Barnett is ‘The Silent Conductor’. Without speaking, and armed with only a baton, enlivened by energy and humour, he conducts orchestras like none other on Earth. No one in his charge has rehearsed, and for some it may be the first time they have wielded an instrument. But the music they create together amazes and inspires. Using only simple percussion instruments and charisma – and without saying a word – the Silent Conductor inspires his audience to sculpt a symphony that is uniquely theirs. He has conducted groups of thousands of novices, and they have created music that competes with the pro’s in its transcendental beauty. He knits together teams and builds unity. He says nothing, but his music speaks volumes.

His specialties include:

• Non-verbal communication
• Motivation through positive engagement
• Leadership through action
• Learning through experience

Born and raised in South Africa, Steve was infused with the country’s unique rhythm. He believes that the pulse and energy of his homeland are a real value which he shares with the world. For over 25 years and without saying a word, he conducts his audiences with dynamic ease and moulds an orchestra from each group he encounters. Be they 30 people for the same company, 3 000 in an auditorium or 30 000 in a soccer stadium, each session combines the laughter and celebration of making music with the joy of communicating together on the most fundamental level.

Steve’s engaging performance is a dramatic illustration of what can be achieved by working together in a positive way. Cultural, social and language barriers are forgotten as the audience become part of an experience that transcends words, where music is the metaphor.

There is no need for anyone in the audience to have any experience playing a musical instrument but Steve subtly and quietly teaches the principles of effective leadership, effortless innovation, team-work and change management through his hands – and his body language. His orchestrations are a dramatic illustration of what can be achieved by working together in a positive, constructive collaboration.

Steve Barnett has conducted and animated audiences in over 50 countries across 6 continents with hundreds of thousands of ‘performers’. From Wembley Stadium and the Royal Albert Hall in London, to bush lodges in Africa, he has shared stages with the likes of Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu and Bill Clinton.

Imagine an entire audience of non-musicians effortlessly transforming into an orchestra in mere minutes. Imagine a conductor teaches, in total silence, about leadership, communication, co-operation and synergy.

A unique non-verbal approach to group events. From accomplished musicians to complete novices – all participants are united, motivated and inspired as Steve guides his audience in the discovery of the power of collaboration with these Basic Rules of Engagement:

See also “The Change Conductors’ with Dr. Mark Manley.